How large of a solar system do I need?

According to the EIA (US Energy Efficiency Information), the average American household consumes 10,932 kilowatts per year and the average Californian household consumes 6744 kilowatts per year. How much solar you need depends on multiple factors, including:

Usage: Each individual household or business is different. Two identical buildings can consume vastly different amounts of electricity. Usage can be checked using past utility bills.

Anticipated Increase in Use: Do you plan on increasing your electricity usage in the future, such as using the AC more, buying an electric vehicle, or growing your family? (We recommend eliminating your electric bill. Why take a half measure?)

Amount to Offset: Would you like to completely offset your electricity usage or would you like a smaller system and pay a small annual bill from your utility?

Location: For both roof and ground-mount solar systems, production depends on multiple factors, including: direction, angle, location, and shading. A site survey will determine the best location to install solar panels and estimate how much electricity your roof will produce.

How much solar electricity can I produce annually?

On average, each 1 kilowatt of solar can produce 1450 kilowatts of electricity annually. For example, a 6.2 kilowatt system (which could be comprised of Mitsubishi, LG, SolarWorld, and SunPower panels) will on average produce 8990 kilowatts per year. If you consume 8990 kilowatts per year, your solar system will completely offset your usage.

However, annual production varies between buildings due to factors including roof direction, angle, location, and shading. Our energy consultant will determine expected annual production for your solar system.

How long until my solar investment “breaks even”?

By financing your solar system, the savings are immediate. The combined monthly payments for your solar system and your new lower electric bill can be lower than your old bill.

For a cash purchase, when combining the 30% Federal tax credit with the savings in your electric bill, a solar system can pay for itself in as little as 5 years.

Will solar add to my property tax?

No. Adding a solar system will not cause a reassessment of your property value. Solar is exempt.

When does the 30% Federal tax credit expire?

The US Congress recently voted to keep the 30% Federal tax credit alive & well until 12/31/2020.

How long do solar panels last?

All solar panels are warrantied for 25 years, but are designed to have a useful service life of 30-50 years and degrade slowly during their service life.

How much maintenance does solar require?

A properly designed & installed system requires ZERO maintenance. You shouldn’t even worry about cleaning your panels. Even with limited rainfall, solar panels maintain their productivity.

How long is the installation process?

Once you sign your contract, we will draft CAD designs, work with your HOA, apply for Permits, install your system, attend the final inspection, and apply for Utility Interconnection & Net Metering. The entire process usually takes 8 – 12 weeks from contract signing to passing final inspection. Solar installations require coordination with cities, HOAs, and utility companies. Delays caused by these organizations and the weather may slow down the installation process, but we keep you updated throughout.

How much time does it take to Interconnect my solar system and be Net Metered?

Once your system passes final inspection, we send a copy of your signed Permit and interconnection application to your Utility on your behalf. Utility companies request 30 days to activate your Interconnection. But in our experience, it typically takes 2 weeks on average.

Does YES subcontract any portion of my solar installation?

No. Every YES team member is an employee of the company, including in-house electricians that perform electric panel upgrades and electrical work.

Why should I choose Your Energy Solutions?

Solar is a major investment and a permanent fixture. It is important to go with an installer you can trust. A properly designed & installed system will produce electricity for decades. Say “Yes” to Your Energy Solutions. We always say “Yes” to you, our valued customer.

So, why should you go with YES?

YES has showrooms are located in Pleasanton, Danville, and San Jose, so you know where to find us. We showcase our products to give you a visual of how solar is installed. See our panels on display, mounted on sample roofs, for you to touch and tug. Schedule an appointment for a visit.

We’re Brand Neutral

Our energy consultants will present different options for solar panels and inverters without any steering. Let us educate you so you can evaluate your options to make your best informed decision.

Unparalleled Customer Service

We’ve created a culture, laser-focused, to provide great customer service and communication. You will be updated throughout the installation of your system and we’re always here to answer any questions you may have. Our commitment to customer service during and after install is reflected in our Yelp and Angie’s List reviews. We encourage you to read the feedback our customers give us. You are our customer for life.

Referral Program

We believe our best marketing tool is word-of-mouth. That’s why we’ve invested in our new referral app so that our customers can share YES with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers looking to go solar. Please see our Referral App.

How do I get started?

Contact us to get started by calling 888.888.0711 or by requesting a quote. We look forward to working with you so you can achieve 100% energy independence.